[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 137 (Wednesday, November 12, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1535]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  IN HONOR OF CHIEF BENNY G. BENAVIDEZ

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JUAN VARGAS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 12, 2014

  Mr. VARGAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Chief Benny G. 
Benavidez for his outstanding and invaluable service to the Imperial 
County community and to congratulate him on his retirement. Throughout 
his 37-year public service career, Chief Benavidez exhibited dedication 
to the Imperial County Probation Department's staff and clients, while 
keeping a steadfast commitment to improving services in Imperial 
County.
  Chief Benavidez began his career in Imperial County Probation as a 
Juvenile Hall Officer in the 1970s. During his career, he served in 
many capacities for the Imperial County Probation Department and the 
California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. In his 
leadership position at the Imperial County Probation Department, Chief 
Benavidez practiced and preached ethical conduct, professionalism, 
knowledge, loyalty and evidence-based practices. He also created a new 
mission statement that embodies the driving force and tempo for all 
officers, enhanced officer training, established the Day Reporting 
Center, a one stop shop for services and referrals, improved Juvenile 
Hall Medical Services and brought a wealth of resources to the area 
through his collaborative efforts.
  Chief Benavidez was heavily involved in the community he served. He 
routinely attended Imperial County Board of Supervisors meetings, Law 
Enforcement Coordination Council meetings, Community Corrections 
Partnership meetings and local events designed to bring awareness to 
the resources available in the community to reduce recidivism, motivate 
behavioral change and advocate for victims. With a degree in Criminal 
Justice Administration from San Diego State University, Chief Benavidez 
continues to be a valuable asset to the Imperial Valley College faculty 
as a Correctional Science instructor.

                          ____________________